Making The Most of Road Signs

Some motorists ignore road signs like billionaires ignore two-for-one offers. That makes
less sense than the world's toughest quadratic equation. These metallic marvels keep
people safe, confirm the speed limit, and help with navigation. That is unless they are
hidden behind overgrown bushes, of course. As such, Simon Elstow from The Institute of
Advanced Motorists has a few simple tips to help drivers get the most from these assets:

-
Look well ahead to see road signs – the more time you give yourself to see them
the better. They give information and guidance on hazards, road layouts and
directions – don’t ignore them.

- Be careful where there are temporary signs – they are there for a specific reason.

- If you notice a sign that is misspelt, is misleading, overcrowded or hidden by dirt
and foliage, report it to the council. The message has to be clear so that drivers
can act on them immediately.

- If you notice a sign too late, don’t make a last minute manoeuvre that could be
dangerous, such as a sharp turn, sudden braking or a u-turn. Drive on until you find
a safe place to turn around.

- Most triangular warning signs for junctions and bends are only put up after a fatality
or a number of serious injuries.

- Five minutes spent with the Highway Code can make understanding of signs much
clearer.

Elstow said: “Road signs are often seen as one of those things you only learn for your
driving test. While you might not know what each and every sign means, it’s always good
to brush up and read the Highway Code every once in a while.”

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Article AuthorStephen Turvil

postedMon, 19 Mar 2012

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But their impact is so reduced due to the huge numbers of them. They have proliferated out of all proportion.

The worst road signs, crrying far too much info to read whilst driving, are police signs asking for witnesses to accidents or incidents. Shame on you!